Dolphins Discuss Trade for Pro-Bowl Tight End Jonnu Smith with Steelers

The Miami Dolphins have reportedly engaged in trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers concerning tight end Jonnu Smith, who was the Dolphins’ only Pro-Bowl selection last season. The news, broken by NFL insider Adam Schefter, highlights ongoing negotiations that stem from Smith’s desire to restructure his current contract, which is set to pay him $4.8 million this season.

Background on Jonnu Smith

Jonnu Smith emerged as a key player for the Dolphins, showcasing his skills as a tight end and earning a Pro-Bowl selection last season. His performance on the field has made him an invaluable asset for the team. Known for his ability to create mismatches against defenses, Smith’s versatility allows him to play both as a receiver and a blocker, making him a crucial part of Miami’s offensive strategy.

Despite his success, Smith has expressed a desire for a contract rework. This is not uncommon in the NFL, where players often seek adjustments to their deals, especially after standout seasons. In this scenario, Smith’s contract situation appears to have fueled trade talks, as the Dolphins weigh their options moving forward.

Dolphins’ Perspective

For the Dolphins, engaging in trade discussions may reflect a strategic approach to managing their roster and salary cap. With Smith’s Pro-Bowl status, he carries significant trade value, which could be beneficial in acquiring additional assets or improving other areas of the team. The Dolphins may also be considering the financial implications of keeping Smith on the roster at his current salary, especially if they foresee potential cap constraints in the future.

Miami’s front office is likely evaluating both the immediate and long-term benefits of retaining Smith versus trading him. If they can secure a favorable return, it may be a move that bolsters their overall team performance in the upcoming seasons.

Steelers’ Interest

On the flip side, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ interest in Jonnu Smith indicates their commitment to enhancing their roster and potentially adding a dynamic playmaker to their offense. The Steelers have been known for their ability to maximize the talents of tight ends, and bringing in a Pro-Bowl caliber player like Smith could significantly impact their passing game.

Adding Smith could provide the Steelers with an additional weapon alongside their current offensive lineup, creating more options for their quarterback. His ability to stretch the field and block effectively would make him a valuable asset in both the passing and running game.

Contract Negotiations

One of the critical factors in these discussions centers around Smith’s current contract. At $4.8 million, the tight end’s deal is relatively modest compared to top-tier players at his position, especially considering his Pro-Bowl status. However, Smith’s desire to renegotiate suggests that he believes his value exceeds his current compensation, a sentiment that many players share after achieving significant accomplishments on the field.

The trade talks may serve as leverage for Smith in his negotiations with the Dolphins. If the team is serious about trading him, it could prompt a reassessment of his contract to ensure that he remains with the Dolphins, or it may lead to a more lucrative deal with the Steelers should a trade materialize.

Implications for the Dolphins’ Offense

Should the Dolphins proceed with the trade, they will need to consider how to fill the void left by Smith’s departure. The tight end position is critical in the modern NFL, often serving as a reliable target for quarterbacks and a key player in offensive schemes. The Dolphins would have to evaluate their current roster and explore potential free-agent signings or draft picks to ensure they maintain their offensive efficiency.

Miami’s coaching staff will also need to assess how they can adapt their offensive strategy without Smith. His unique skill set may be challenging to replace, which could lead to adjustments in play-calling and player utilization.

Conclusion

The trade discussions between the Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers regarding Jonnu Smith underscore the complexities of roster management in the NFL. As teams navigate the intricacies of contracts, player performance, and salary cap implications, decisions made during this period can have lasting effects on their franchise.

Smith’s situation reflects the broader trends within the league, where players seek to maximize their value while teams aim to build competitive rosters. Whether the Dolphins choose to trade their Pro-Bowl tight end or renegotiate his contract, the outcome of these discussions will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of both franchises for the upcoming season and beyond.

As fans and analysts closely watch these developments, one thing remains clear: the future of Jonnu Smith, the Dolphins, and the Steelers will be closely intertwined in the coming weeks, making it an essential storyline to follow as the NFL landscape continues to evolve.

The Dolphins have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers about their lone Pro-Bowl selection last season, tight end Jonnu Smith, per league sources. Those talks came after Smith expressed an interest in reworking his deal that is scheduled to pay him $4.8 million this… pic.twitter.com/t4G8DqsF6s

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 29, 2025

The Dolphins Have Had Trade Discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers About Their Lone Pro-Bowl Selection Last Season, Tight End Jonnu Smith

In recent news, the Miami Dolphins have reportedly been in trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers regarding tight end Jonnu Smith, who made a name for himself as the lone Pro-Bowl selection for the Dolphins last season. According to sources cited by Adam Schefter, these discussions were sparked by Smith’s interest in reworking his contract, which is currently set to pay him $4.8 million this season.

What Does This Mean for Jonnu Smith?

For Jonnu Smith, this situation is not just about numbers. It’s about his standing in the league and how he can maximize his performance while securing his financial future. After a successful season that earned him Pro-Bowl recognition, his desire to renegotiate is understandable. Players often seek to align their contracts with their on-field performance, and Smith’s case is no different.

The Dolphins’ Perspective on the Trade Talks

The Dolphins are in a unique position. With a focus on building a competitive team, trading Smith could provide them with the capital needed to secure other promising players or strengthen other positions. However, letting go of a Pro-Bowl talent isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. The Dolphins will have to weigh the benefits of acquiring new talent against the risk of losing a proven performer.

The Steelers’ Interest in Jonnu Smith

On the flip side, the Steelers are always on the lookout for ways to enhance their roster. Adding a player like Jonnu Smith could significantly bolster their offensive capabilities. Known for his versatility and playmaking ability, Smith could become a key target in the Steelers’ passing game. His skill set aligns well with the kind of player the Steelers typically rely on to create mismatches against opposing defenses.

Implications for the NFL Landscape

The potential trade between the Dolphins and the Steelers could send ripples throughout the NFL. Trade discussions like these often lead to a chain reaction, prompting other teams to assess their rosters and consider similar moves. The NFL is an ever-evolving landscape, and trades can shift the balance of power in the league.

What Could the Dolphins Get in Return?

If the Dolphins decide to go through with the trade, the question arises: what could they get in return? The Steelers might be willing to part with draft picks or even other players to secure Smith’s services. Such a transaction could help the Dolphins not only recover from losing a key player but also bolster their future prospects.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

As usual, fan reactions to trade discussions can be mixed. Dolphins fans who have followed Smith’s journey will undoubtedly have strong feelings about his potential departure. On the other hand, Steelers fans might be excited about the prospect of adding a Pro-Bowl talent to their roster. Regardless of the outcome, these discussions create buzz among the fanbase, highlighting the passion and investment that fans have in their teams.

Contractual Details and Future Implications

Smith’s current contract, which is set to pay him $4.8 million, raises questions about how the Dolphins or Steelers would approach his deal. If a trade occurs, would there be an immediate restructuring? How would this impact Smith’s performance and comfort level in a new environment? These are all crucial factors that both teams will need to consider as they move forward.

The Bigger Picture: Player Mobility in the NFL

This situation isn’t just about Jonnu Smith; it reflects a broader trend in the NFL where player mobility is becoming increasingly common. Players seek opportunities to maximize their potential, both in terms of performance and financial gain. As teams continue to adapt to this trend, we may see more players expressing their desires for contract negotiations or trades, which could lead to a more dynamic and unpredictable league.

What’s Next for Jonnu Smith?

As the trade discussions unfold, all eyes will be on Jonnu Smith. Will he remain with the Dolphins, or will he find a new home with the Steelers? The decisions made in the coming weeks will not only impact Smith’s career but also the future of both franchises. For now, fans can only speculate and hope for a favorable outcome.

Conclusion: Anticipating the Trade’s Outcome

As the NFL offseason progresses, the potential trade of Jonnu Smith between the Dolphins and the Steelers remains a hot topic. The implications of such a move could be significant, affecting both teams and the league as a whole. For fans and analysts alike, it’s a thrilling time to watch the developments unfold. Whether Smith stays in Miami or makes a new start in Pittsburgh, one thing is for sure: the excitement surrounding the NFL never fades.